Course content

This course will provide students with a basic introduction to Western literature from Antiquity to the Renaissance.

The course includes many of the classic works of the period, like Homer’s Odyssey, Sophocles’ Oedipus the King, Sappho’s love poetry, Vergil’s Aenid, biblical texts, Dante’s Divine Comedy, and Boccaccio’s Decameron.

The instruction will include the origins, development, and poetics of the classic genres in an aesthetic, historic and cultural framework, and show how this literature provides keys to understanding both literature and other contemporary forms of culture.

The last part of the course concerns the Italian Renaissance of the 14th and 15th century, which forms the starting point of the modern literary tradition.

Learning outcome

The course will give the students a basic introduction to the history of Western literature from Antiquity to the Renaissance. Students are expected to have knowledge of several of the classical works of this period. They should also be able reflect on how these works provide keys to understanding both literature and other contemporary forms of culture.

Learning methods and activities

Lectures and group studies including written assignments.

Course requirements:
Compulsory written assignment (4-5 pages) with feedback.

Time frame:
½ semester (August – October)

Compulsory assignments

• Approved written assignment

Recommended previous knowledge

EXFAC0003, or a corresponding course.

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

The reading list will be available first day of class.

Credit reductions